How to Diagnose Copper Deficiency

Copper is an essential mineral needed for a healthy diet. Copperinfo.com states that over 20 percent of the population suffers from copper deficiencies. While this mineral does not need to be present in large quantities within the body, trace amounts allow the body to function properly. There are a number of symptoms of a copper deficiency.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for symptoms. A number of symptoms relay the signs of a possible copper deficiency. Fatigue, skin sores, hair loss, diarrhea and a lowered immune systems are some of the signs an individual may not have enough of the mineral. Additionally, reproductive problems, anorexia and edema are also symptoms of copper loss. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, it is possible you may not receive enough copper in your diet or vitamins.

• 2

  Watch your diet. A poor diet can lead to significant health problems from cardiovascular disease, obesity and vitamin deficiencies. Choose foods that have high amounts of copper to reduce a deficiency. Organ meat such as calf or chicken livers have high amounts of copper. Cremini mushrooms, navy beans, chick peas, soybeans and barley are also significant sources of copper. Copper helps to eliminate to eliminate free radicals according to the George Mateljan Foundation. Free radicals are known to cause damage to cell membranes which can lead to disease and infection.

• 3

  Visit your doctor. If you are experiencing symptoms of a copper deficiency, go get a check up at the doctor's office. A physician will take a simple blood test to see if copper and other trace minerals are lacking. A copper supplement or a diet change may be necessary if there is a lack of copper in the blood stream.